octreotide (Novartis)

Octreotide LAR is a long-acting release formulation of octreotide, a synthetic cyclic octapeptide that mimics the natural hormone somatostatin. It acts as a potent agonist at somatostatin receptors, particularly SSTR2 and SSTR5, inhibiting the secretion of various hormones and vasoactive substances including serotonin, gastrin, insulin, glucagon, and growth hormone. Developed by Novartis and marketed as Sandostatin LAR, it is primarily indicated for the management of symptoms associated with metastatic carcinoid tumors (carcinoid syndrome) and vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting tumors (VIPomas), as well as for the treatment of acromegaly. The LAR formulation utilizes microspheres of a biodegradable polymer (poly(lactide-co-glycolide), PLGA) to provide sustained therapeutic drug levels over a 4-week period following intramuscular injection.

Brand names

Sandostatin LARSandostatin LAR Depot

Other names

Octreotide LAROctreotide acetate LAROctreotide long-acting release